Ex-MP Pratap Simha opposes Dasara inauguration by Banu Mushtaq

Mysuru: Former MP Pratap Simha said that the state government should reconsider the decision to invite Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq for the inauguration of Mysuru Dasara atop Chamundi Hill on September 22.

Speaking to media persons in Mysuru on Sunday, he said, "I respect Banu Mushtaq's contribution to the literary world. Selecting her as President of Akhila Bharatha Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in order to honour her is acceptable. But Dasara is not a government programme. It is a Hindu religious festival celebrated with devotion. It is inaugurated by offering puja to Goddess Sri Chamundeshwari Devi. Banu Mushtaq is from another faith. Does she believe in Goddess Chamundeshwari? How will she be the right person to inaugurate it," he questioned.

"Earlier when Baragur Ramachandrappa inaugurated Dasara, he said 'No' to visit Chamundeshwari Temple and to light the lamp before the Goddess. Was it not an insult for Dasara celebration? Girish Karnad, who was critical about Hindu religion, was invited. Why does Siddaramaiah choose those who are against Hindu religious beliefs for Dasara inauguration. Is he taking the revenge against the erstwhile Maharajas by affecting their traditions," Simha asked.

About Minister Priyank Kharge's statement that banning online gaming app would lead to revenue loss, he said, "If they want to enhance revenue, let him regularise prostitution."